The best age to insure a dog
Why puppies are the cheapest dogs to insure, how much the price rises with age, and your options for an older dog.
Updated September 25, 2026. Prices are BreedSure estimates; each insurer's policy documents control.
What will it cost for your dog?
Pick your breed, age and ZIP code to see the estimated monthly price from the insurers we compare.
The short answer: as early as you can
The best time to insure a dog is as a puppy, as soon as insurers accept puppies, typically from about 6 to 8 weeks old. Two things get worse every year you wait: the premium goes up, and the list of pre-existing conditions that won't be covered gets longer.
How the price rises with age
Estimated monthly premium for the median breed on BreedSure, national average, 80% reimbursement, $250 deductible:
| Age at enrollment | Estimated monthly | Versus age 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Under 1 | $44/mo est. | -10% |
| 2 years | $49/mo est. | — |
| 5 years | $59/mo est. | +20% |
| 8 years | $78/mo est. | +60% |
| 11 years | $108/mo est. | +120% |
| 13+ years | $137/mo est. | +180% |
BreedSure model estimates, not quotes. Each insurer sets its own age pricing.
Premiums rise even if you enroll young
Enrolling early doesn't freeze the price: most insurers raise premiums as your dog ages, whenever you joined. What enrolling early locks in is coverage. A condition that first shows up while your dog is insured stays covered on renewal, subject to the policy's terms.
Insuring an older dog
It is still possible. Among the insurers we compare, Spot and Odie have no upper age limit to enroll. Expect a higher premium, exclusions for anything already in the vet records, and sometimes fewer plan options. For a senior dog, compare the premium with an accident-only plan.
Before you enroll a puppy
- Buy the policy before the first vet visit finds anything, and keep your adoption or breeder health records.
- Check the waiting periods, especially the orthopedic one for large breeds.
- Pick an annual limit that covers the top of your breed's most expensive condition. Find your breed.
Check how this applies to your breed
Get an email if prices for your breed change
We update our estimates monthly. We will email you when the estimate for your dog changes, and nothing else.